First pitch: Harrell lands back in the bullpen, Stassi serves a DH again

Two days after making a spot start, former No. 2 starter Lucas Harrell returned to the bullpen on Wednesday night for the series finale against the Rangers. He returned to a relief role because the Astros will use Jordan Lyles on Friday, Brad Peacock on Saturday and Dallas Keuchel on Sunday during the three-game series against the Blue Jays.

Harrell, who gave up nine runs (seven earned) over 2 1/3 innings in the 16-5 loss Monday, had thrown 4 1/3 scoreless innings over his two previous relief outings.

“My arm feels fine,” he said. “I feel good. I feel strong. I’m just ready to get back out there to get in a game and hopefully get another chance to get in a game and help us try to win a game.”

Harrell entered the night with a 6-14 record and 5.55 ERA.

“I threw 198 innings last year,” he said. “I can carry 200-plus innings on my arm. It’s one of those things that I feel like whenever they need to use me they’ll use me, and I’ll be ready when they call down.”